KHOU Bargain Betty

Can't go wrong with free breakfasts at Chick-fil-A

2009-01-08T04:32:21Z

I hope you are hungry because Chick-fil-A is having a special deal this January. They are giving away free breakfasts. But only on Thursdays and it's only on certain things on the menu.

But...hey it's free and like they say, beggars can't be choosers.

]]> So here's what they have going on:

January 8: Free Chick-fil-A chicken biscuit
January 15: Free Chick-fil-A chick-n-minis (3 count)
January 22: Free Chick-fil-A chicken biscuit
January 29: Free Chick-fil-A chick-n-minis (3 count)

The stuff is only free if you get there between 6 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. You don't need a coupon, but you only get one per visit.

Affordable and authentic mexican market in our own backyard!

2008-12-04T15:42:58Z

It's not often that I have the opportunity to really introduce something new to the Houston community, since you all always seem to be on top of the newest and best thing! This weekend I had the opportunity to check out what can only be described as a hidden treasure... the kind of treasure filled with unique and authentic items from Mexico for decorating your home... and yourself!

]]> The East End Urban Market is a paradise of authentic Mexican Goods priced from $5.00 (bracelets) to $3,000 ( Furniture). The woman bringing you this authentic experience? Mari Graham. Ms. Graham, who hand picks all of the goods herself, is a Landscape designer.While working on projects in clients homes she started to see that there was definitely a need in Houston for authentic Spanish-meditteranean, and Hacienda style peices for the home. As Mari says " Obviously this style is popular here, and people want this style reflected through the pieces in their homes. Everybody can't go to Mexico and get these pieces, but I can."

Picking out every piece herself, Mari has created a market that comes off as eclectic and cool, yet the authenticity of the goods in the store almost blindsides you when you enter. From the iron chandeliers and the artwork, to the chairs and the purses.... everything in this store screams artistry and craftmanship. The passion that Mari has put into this store is reflected throughout the store, and you can't catch but catch theb ig as you walk through.

Better yet? Mari is always looking for vendors who share her love and passion to vendor at the East End Urban Market's Market Days. When asked about what kind of vendors she is looking for, Mari states that " I'm sharing my space with people who want to be a part of an extended family of craftsmen." It is obvious that Mari is deservededly proud of this "authentic experience" that she has created, and wants vendors who can add to this experience. At the end of the day, Mari explains, she wants vendors and customers alike, to come out because they have a true love, and passion, for what they are selling, or buying.

As I cut the interview short, trying not to be to rude as I edge over to the glassware, Mari sighs and says something suprisingly poignant when I ask her if she is happy. She doesn't even think before she says: " I'm just providing quality service through providing quality goods, and at the end of the day that makes everybody happy, right? " Right.

The East End Urban Market is located at 716 Telephone Rd, at the corner of Lockwood.It is just east of downtown in the Tlaquepaque Center near Bohemeo's cafe. I've found the easiest way to get there is to take I 45 to Scott, and take Scott to Leeland. Leeland turns into Telephone at the corner of Lockwood, and you can't miss the mint green building with the large "East End Urban Market" lettering!

The East End Urban Market is open every Saturday 9 to 4, and their Market Days happen once or twice a month. The next one coming up will be on the 13th of December. For more information about buying and selling you can contact Mari through the website at EastEndUrbanMarket.com, or contact thebusiness office at 713 924 9506.

There's no need to push and fight... the deals at Toys R Us will only get better.

2008-12-03T16:28:43Z

This is a Bargain Betty Public Service Announcement:

I am astounded at all of the ruthlessness ( yes I said it) going on at the stores!!! Pushing, biting, yes, even shooting because of toys?!?!? I could never see getting bodily harm because of a cabbage patch doll. Not because I am immune to their chubby lil' faces, or because i'm just a mean Aunt who doesn't care if my niece doesn't get what she wants. There's a common sense reason i'm not throwing punches over Baby Alive, and it has to do with being scrupulous with my money, not my toy-shopping-morals.

]]> The Deals Will Only Get Better!

Stores are turning flips to get your business, and Black Friday is a thing of the past (even though no one seems to know it yet )! Stores aren't giving out there best deals only once at the beginning of the shopping season, but throughout! Want an example?

The deals for this week at Toys R Us are just as good, maybe some a little better, as the ones they had on Black Friday! And notice they have doorbuster deals this week. Doorbusters are what Black Friday's are known for... those deals that make you want to bust the door down to get in... but hopefully Houstonians are kinder in that they won't trample over sales attendants.....

Half-Off Specials Valid on Tuesday, December 2 and Wednesday, December 3. Doorbuster Deals Available on Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6

With the holiday shopping season in full swing, customers have made their shopping lists and are checking in with Toys"R"Us stores twice to find incredible savings on their holiday gifts. This week, Toys"R"Us stores nationwide offer even more savings with a selection of items at half-off, while others mark the lowest prices ever on select items and more great deals.

Please see below for highlights of the great values shoppers can take advantage of all week long. Customers will also find a special half-off sale all day on Tuesday, December 2 and Wednesday, December 3 and amazing doorbusters on Friday, December 5 from 3 pm - 12 midnight and Saturday, December 6 from 6 am - 1 pm.

Some of the great values include discounts on a variety of this season's hottest video games, video game accessories, toys, dolls, board games, remote-control vehicles, electronics, toddler toys and much more. Whether shoppers are looking for toys in the $100 price range, the $50 price range or the $20 price range, everyone is shopping to save, and Toys"R"Us associates can help any gift-giver find the perfect toy, game or electronic to suit their budget.

Following are highlights of this week's "Half-Off Sale" and 2-day sale with additional deals valid now through Saturday, December 6, while supplies last.

Week-Long specials valid now through Saturday, December 6:

50% off Any Wii Game with the purchase of select Star Wars video games - Prices Vary

25% off Select K'Nex Sets - Prices Vary

25% off All MEGA Bloks sets - Prices Vary

20% Off Star Wars Force Action Lightsabers - Was $19.99; Now $15.99

SAVE $25 on Air Hogs Reflex R/C Helicopter - Was $69.99; Now $44.99

SAVE $20 on Littlest Pet Shop Biggest Littlest Pet Shop - Was $49.99; Now $29.99

SAVE $10 on U-Command Wall-E - Was $59.99; Now $49.99

SAVE $10 on WWE Arena Playset - Was $59.99; Now $49.99

SAVE $20 on any LeapFrog Purchase of $75 or more

Buy One Get Half-Off Select LEGO Sets - Prices Vary

Half-Off sale items offered Tuesday, December 2 and Wednesday, December 3:

50% off Select DVDs - Was $19.99; Now $9.99

50% off VideoNow FX Player - Was $24.98; Now $12.49

50% off select Hannah Montana Themed Dolls - Was $12.99; Now $6.99

50% off Spider-Man, Hulk or Iron Man Skateboard Value Packs - Was $41.99; Now $20.99

50% off Disney Giant Activity Sets - Was $24.99; Now $12.49

50% off Totally Me! Mega Craft Set - Was $19.99; Now $9.99

50% off Puppy Crawl or Bubble Gum Pit - Was $49.99; Now $24.99

50% off Select PlayStation Portable Games - Prices Vary

50% off Select PlayStation 2 Games - Prices Vary

50% off Select Nintendo DS Games - Prices Vary

Doorbuster deals valid Friday, December 5 from 3 pm - 12 midnight and Saturday, December 6 from 6 am - 1 pm:

More than 50% off Nextar 2 GB MP3 Player - Was $39.99; Now $19.97

50% off Matchbox Skybusters 10-pack - Was $21.99; Now $10.99

50% off Littlest Pet Shop Display & Play 'Round and ' Round Pet Town - Was $34.99; Now $17.49

50% off Little Tikes Shop & Learn Market - Was $49.99; Now - $24.99

50% off Monopoly Boutique Edition - Was $29.99; Now $14.99

50% off Sizzlin' Cool 250-Count Play Balls - Was $24.99; Now $12.49

50% off Hook It Up! Live Jam Band 3-pack - Was $49.99; Now $24.99

50% off NERF Air Tech Ball Reactor Blaster - Was $13.99; Now $6.99

50% off Hot Wheels CARS Flo's V8 Café - Was $29.99; Now $14.99

50% off VTech V.Smile Pocket Portable Learning System - Was $79.99; Now $39.99

Black Friday JC Penney/Disney Store Information

2008-11-28T00:15:02Z

I'm getting all of these email alerts in my box, so i'm passing on the news. This post is about JC Penney and The Disney Store at the Galleria and what they are doing to make it worth your while to go see them tomorrow!

]]> JC PENNEY HOLIDAY SHOPPING

JC Penney will be opening its doors at 4am. Think that's to early? You can go to jcp.com and set yourself a wake up alarm! Their famous Door Buster Deals ( think buy one, get one for .1) will be happening 4am to 1pm, not to mention can't beat markdowns on all of their red box gift collection, as well as their private and national brands.

DISNEY STORE HOLIDAY SHOPPING

For the first time ever, Disney Store is giving you ample time to buy by opening its Galleria store at midnight for extra special early morning savings. Most Disney Stores will open at 12 a.m. on November 28 and between the hours of 12 a.m. and 10 a.m., almost everything* at the Disney Store will be marked an additional 20 percent off. Throughout the remainder of the weekend, Disney Stores will continue to offer sale pricing on top toys such as Disney Princess dolls, tween and plush toys, and more.

What Can You Expect?

Disney Store has toys for tweens, kids and toddlers--all at an additional 20 percent off until 10 a.m. the morning of Black Friday. It's a bet that some of the toys below is on one of your kids gift list, if not your own! Better yet, the prices listed are before the additional percentage off!

· Camp Rock Electronic Drum Set ($39.50) and Camp Rock Keyboard ($69.50): Kids and tweens can create their own rock band with these musical instruments. The drum set comes complete with five drum pads, two drumsticks and carrying handle to take your show on the road. The keyboard has multiple sound effects and five different musical instruments and even comes with a stand for them to rock out with!
· Hannah Montana MP3 Video Camera ($79.50): Kids and tweens can record their favorite dance moves while singing and playing their favorite songs. The MP3 video camera features a docking station, detachable microphone and volume control, and also plugs into the TV so kids can enjoy their own show! Also available in High School Musical theme.

· Hannah Montana Wireless Drumsticks ($39.50): Kids and tweens will discover their inner pop star with ready to rock outside the box wireless drumsticks. Equipped with two wireless drumsticks, volume control and realistic drum effects, all kids need is air space!

· Hannah Montana Holiday Stocking ($19.50): A boot shaped design in Hannah's signature color--purple.

· High School Musical Wardrobe Dolls ($29.50 each) Gabriella & Sharpay dolls come with three additional High School Musical 3: Senior Year inspired outfits for graduation and the prom. Comes in a fashionable re-usable box for storage of clothing.

· High School Musical 3: Senior Year Fashion Dolls ($12.50 each): Gabriella, Sharpay and Troy dolls are dressed in trendy outfits ready to make the most of their senior year.

Wondrous Widgets - Celebrating Disney and Disney·Pixar Favorites

· WALL∙E and Eve Remote Control Robots ($49.50 each): These fully functional robots come with a wireless remote control that allows users to make them walk, talk and interact with each other.

· Infra Red Remote Controlled Cars ($49.50): On your mark, get set, GO! These remote control cars follow the Infra Red beam and come in a variety of characters for both girls and boys, including Disney Princess, Buzz Lightyear, Lightning McQueen and Power Rangers Jungle Fury.

· Little Einsteins Rocket Remote Control ($24.50), Ages 3+: Take Rocket on an adventure with his pals, the Little Einsteins. Remote control moves forward and backward with an easy-to-use remote specially made for preschool age hands. Features three character voices and light-up after burners!

· Little Einsteins Musical Adventure ($14.50), Ages 2+: Flip open the panels to explore the world of music with each adventure. 20 unique melodies play when all panels are open, or enjoy creating your own music with four interactive instrument buttons.

· Handy Manny Tool Set ($14.50), Ages 3+: Preschoolers can play with these handy tools and pretend they have their own workshop.

Favorites for Girls

· Disney Princess Wardrobe Dolls ($29.50): These dolls inspire storytelling and creativity. Choose from Ariel, Belle and Cinderella. Each doll comes with four outfits true to her character, complete with three tiaras, jewelry and hair accessories

· Disney Princess Royal Bath Set ($39.50): The little princesses in your life will be able to care for their water-proof dolls with our new Royal Bath set, complete with a real shower head that sprays water and all the accessories she will need to give her baby a real bath.

· Disney Princess Doll Stroller ($59.50): Girls can give their dolls the royal treatment with the Disney Princess Doll Stroller. It has an adjustable canopy and includes a satin baby blanket and pillow.

· Tinker Bell Styling Head ($24.50): Unleash your inner stylist, with this Tinker Bell styling head. Comes complete with hair extensions, a floral halo, charm bracelet, barrettes and sticker sheet.

Camping out at Bass Pro Shops could win you money... and you'll have fun!

2008-11-24T01:19:11Z

As someone in the community relations field, I have to personally say that Bass Pro Shops is doing an awesome job at being more than "just a store" to the Houston community. I don't jump on my box for many reasons, but I think i'll help myself on to this one...

As a smart and savvy shopper, I like to feel that stores shop to me, and not at me. What I mean by this, is that the store, while giving you the best deal, should also understand the needs of its customers as well.Bass Pro Shops, what I used to consider a ...

]]> ...store for a "man's-man," turned my opinion on its head when it rolled out its Winter Wonderland for kids; A great alternative to carrying your kids around the store telling them "No, those are not for eating." Click here for the story. This store understands that for the most part, shoppers aren't just mindless, bargain-hungry, faceless people, but in a time where everyone assumes you'll buy it just because it's the cheapest... customer service hungry as well.

At the end of the day I want to feel appreciated for shopping with you... even if I did spend 30 minutes haggling with you over signage that said the 42-inch flat screen was $200. This is where we come to Bass Pro Shops; my weeks Best Deal Winner because they aren't just rewarding you with deals once you get into the store,on Black Friday, but are also rewarding you just for waiting for those deals!

SHOPPERS CAMPOUT FOR BLACK FRIDAY SALES

Chance to Win $5,000 Gas Card and $1,000 Shopping Spree

At the Pearland ,TX location on November 19, 2008 Thanksgiving evening shoppers can bring their tents and camp out on the front parking lot at the Bass Pro Shops store located at 1000 Bass Pro Drive in Pearland, to be a part of the 2nd annual Great Turkey Campout and be one of the first through the doors for their big 5-hour sale Friday morning.

From 5:00 - 8:00 pm Thanksgiving evening family and friends will gather around the fire pits, enjoy free hot chocolate and s'mores, and play fun games. They can also register to win Bass Pro Shops gift cards that will be given away every half hour and enter into a drawing to win a $5,000 Shell gas card and a $1,000 Bass Pro Shops shopping spree.

Campers will also be invited to bring a new toy to donate to the Bass Pro Shops "Toys for the Kids" drive to benefit the Pearland neighborhood center. Established in 1987, the center provides Christmas for over 300 families in need.

From 5:30 am - 7:00 am Friday campers will be treated to Christmas caroling by a Pearland school choir and Bass Pro Shops will be passing out free hot chocolate and coffee. Doors open for Black Friday Christmas sales at 6:00 am.

Bad Economy, But Great Deals!

2008-11-23T01:11:37Z

Has anyone noticed the hyper available discounts happening right now?The days of 70% off sales and end-of-the-season sales lasting 2 days are gone! Stores are stepping out of their price fixed comfort zones a lot sooner than ever before, and pricey well-known specialty retailers like Bed Bath and Beyond are rolling out great money saving deals and tips to get your attention!

]]> Check out Bed Bath and Beyond's $10 and up Gift List and thank me later!

With the holidays less than a month away, shoppers are once again faced with the challenge of coming up with great gift ideas for everyone on their list. Bed Bath & Beyond has some unique ideas - in any price range - to make your gifts shine bright this holiday season.

A Gift that Makes Scents for Under $10. A Reed Fragrance Diffuser is the perfect gift for the host or hostess. It adds a decorative accent to any room while filling it with a fresh and delicate scent. Fragrance infused aromatic oils are absorbed up through the rattan Indonesian reeds and released naturally.

Teach Kids a Lesson for Under $20. A Teach and Talk Activity LaptopTM has an LCD screen that features a variety of moving animated graphics designed to keep learning fun for kids. The learning laptop offers a wide assortment of games, spelling tests, math puzzles and even features time telling, music and other educational activities. With a standard keyboard layout and two-button mouse, your child will be prepared for real-world computing.

Make it Personal for Under $30. If a picture speaks a thousand words, imagine what eight would do. Choose a gift that you can customize for the recipient like a Sentiments Serving Tray. Eight photo openings allow the gift to be personalized with photos before you present it. This is a great gift for the holiday host or hostess.

Serenity for Under $40. Have someone on your list that's always on the go and has little time for themselves? Pamper them with a spa themed gift they can use right at home. A 5 piece spa robe gift set coupled with bath salts and a soothing CD will make that special someone feel as relaxed as they would in the spa without the high price ticket.

Tension Breaker for Under $50. A Homedics® Shiatsu Neck Pillow with Heat is a great gift for relaxation. The soft plush pillow has a relaxing rotating massager, plus spot shiatsu for a great target massage with soothing heat for deeper relief.

Tune in For Under $70. The Sharper Image® Wireless Indoor/Outdoor Speaker with Audio Transmitter will let the tunes play indoors or out. Simply connect the transmitter to your favorite audio device to wirelessly beam your music to the outdoor speaker- perfect for picnics, camping and other outings.

Spend Under $80 and They'll Save All Year. If your recipient loves their morning cup of joe, consider a Keurig® Personal Brewer that brews a gourmet cup in less than three minutes. Not only will this gift save them time in brewing and clean up, it will also help them save money. Now they can be their own barista right at home and avoid trips to the local coffee shop - which can really add up!

Make Memories Last a Lifetime for Under $150. The gift of a VuPoint Solutiona Digital Photo Converter or slide and negative converter will transform anyone's favorite photos or negatives to a digital format. Once converted to a digital format, the priceless memories can be shared with friends and family, displayed in a digital frame or included in a slide show for a special event. Plus they can be safely stored on a CD or DVD.

Start a Tradition for Under $200. The holidays are rich in tradition, whether your family takes turns reading a holiday tale or gathers to watch your favorite movie on Christmas Eve. This year, start a new tradition with a Lionel® O-gauge Electric Train Set, reminiscent of days gone by. Great for everyday play or an annual Christmas display- the classic design will provide great holiday memories for years to come.

Save time this holiday by shopping at your local Bed Bath & Beyond or online at bedbathandbeyond.com to find unique gifts for everyone on your list. Or choose a Bed Bath & Beyond gift card and let the recipient select their own perfect gift.

Holiday concert is free for kids

2008-11-18T00:16:40Z

It's a bird... It's a plane.... It's a good cause, that's even better on the ears!

Where will you be December 7, 2008 at 5pm? If you're a music lover, or you want to be, you'll be at this Biennial Christmas Concert featuring the Houston Ebony Opera Guild!

Sadly they won't be dressed like the Chorus Line, but rest assured you won't be seeing a lack of bright, shiny stars!

]]> "Behold The Star" is a Christmas Concert that for the last 7 years has had as its mission to bring quality music to the ears of Houston area youth through its programming. Because this event takes place in a smaller venue, adults and children alike come face to face with musicians and music in a way that cannot be attained in a larger venue!

Sponsored by Southwest Houston's Westbury United Methodist Church, this Christmas concert features spirituals, hymns, traditional Christmas music, and other classics, brought to you by the Houston Ebony Opera Guild!

For all the punch this concert packs, the prices are what I like most! This concert is accesible to anyone as children 8 and under are free, 9 to 18 are $10, adult tickets are $20, and senior (60+) tickets are $15. Have a family of five, or know five people that want to go? You can get a family/group ticket for $65.00 flat!

This concert is sure to be music to your ears, and your pockets will enjoy the jingle-jangle of the extra coins you saved as well!

For tickets and other questions you can call Westbury United Methodist Church at 713 723 0175!

Keeping kids entertained without breaking the bank

2008-11-16T23:56:11Z

Turns out that Bass Pro Shops, an outdoorsman's one stop shop, has a veritable Schmorgesbord of holiday delights in store for your brood and you!

This well known retailer based out of Springfield, Missouri, boasts a Santa's Wonderland that has free Christmas activities for your kids to participate in, all while you shop for tackle and mace!

Read the following to find out how you can participate in all they have to offer!

]]>

To help pass the time, do you remember the fun crafts and holiday ornaments you made as a child? Now you can introduce your child to these time-honored traditions every weekend at Bass Pro Shops Santa's Wonderland.

Each Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 5pm beginning November 15th and continuing through December 21st, bring the kids to the Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops located at 5000 Katy Mills Circle in Katy and enjoy a different craft activity.

Saturday and Sunday, November 15th and 16th, turn ordinary pine cones into beautiful ornaments, November 22nd and 23rd make hand-made paper chains, November 29th and 30 create Santas out of fishing bobbers, December 6th and 7th construct fun reindeer hats, December 13th and 14th change candy canes into reindeer and December 20th and 21st decorate cookies for Santa.

These are just some of the fun events going on at the Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops this season.

You can also enjoy the Bachmann old-time model trains area, remote control cars, a Red Ryder laser arcade, a soft gun range and activity tables where you can color and write a letter to Santa. It's all absolutely free.

Santa will be in residence there throughout the season so you can get a free 4 x 6 photo with him and his reindeer from 5pm to 9pm Monday through Friday, Saturday's 10am to 9pm and Sunday's noon to 5 pm with extended hours beginning November 27th. Don't forget to grab your Bass Pass if the line is long, and your appointment with Santa is set.

While at Bass Pro Shops contribute a toy for the "Toys for the Kids" drive to benefit the Katy Christian ministries and contribute to the USO's Operation Care Package and your local AMVETS organization.

Remember Christmas as it used to be when you were a child and enjoy the season again with your children at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World.

For More Info You Can Go to www.basspro.com

Rats, angels, and fairies...oh, my!

2008-11-15T23:20:59Z

So I have officially christened this week the:

"what the heck can I do with my family for free" week!

If you have already done the park, the mall, and are now hearing that chorus of "Again?!?!" when you propose movie night, you'll be happy to know that...

]]>

...there is a fabulously FREE Houston tradition that is happening this Tuesday November 18th at Jones Hall. After a 4 year break, The Greater Houston Youth Nutcracker Project, formerly known as the Inner City Nutcracker Project, is bringing this WONDERFUL family tradition back to the stage!

The Inner City Nutcracker Project has evolved into a Houston tradition through which children from underserved schools can audition for roles and participate in the Nutcracker ballet. The children are transformed as they perform as angels, soldiers, party children, as well as the children of Mother Ginger. This allows them the opportunity to perform alongside professional ballet performers in Jones Hall in front of various students from Houston school districts, as well as the general public.

Margaux Blackwell, a Greater Houston Youth Nutcracker Project board member, shares that the City Ballet of Houston (CBH) always takes the lead and prepares these young performers for their stage debut. They ensure that the children involved are well prepared, educated on the art of ballet, and above all things: enjoying themselves! As a previous "child of Mother Ginger," I myself have fond memories of being a part of this wonderful event!

I have to tell you Houston, this is one of those events you can't afford to miss! Seeing children blossom on stage, and in their seats as they watch their peers, is a moving and enjoyable experience! Doors open at 7:30 Pm, and it is FREE TO THE PUBLIC! Please see the attached file so you can see where you can get tickets!

NUTCRACKER TICKET DISTRIBUTION SITESACRES HOME MULTISERVICE_1.doc